Unless you buy a new home, you have several improvement projects you’d like to complete. But when you are busy with pre-move tasks, home renovations will likely fall at the bottom of your to-do list.
However, it’s best to implement some home remodel projects on an empty house. Besides saving you from the inconveniences of living through the construction work, you can avoid unnecessary, miscellaneous costs. Here are some home upgrade projects to prioritize.
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1- Flooring Upgrades
Flooring upgrade is among the vital home remodel projects you should complete before moving to a new home. This saves you from temporary relocation and storage hassles after settling into your new home. Typically, undertaking a flooring project after moving in can be more expensive and inconvenient.
Installing new flooring is best done when your floor space is empty and takes several weeks, depending on the size of your home. The cost of upgrading your flooring depends on material preferences, size, labor costs, and miscellaneous expenses.
For instance, installing a new carpet costs about $1,700, and mid-range wooden flooring can cost about $2,500.
2- Kitchen Remodel
While you can remodel your kitchen later after moving in, it can be inconvenient since installing the fixtures takes time. You’ll not be able to use the kitchen, meaning you’ll have to create a budget allocation for daily eat-outs until the remodel is complete -which can take several months.
Most kitchen upgrades are big-ticket projects that cost tens of thousands. Ideally, you can save miscellaneous costs by completing the remodel before moving in.
While most kitchen renovations can add value to your home, it’s essential to limit your budget to an easily recoverable amount when you decide to sell your home.
3- Bathroom Renovation
Bathroom remodeling is a top priority among new homeowners, but it’s vital to consider cost, convenience, and time factors. Minor upgrades can take a few weeks, while complete overhauls can last over one month.
If your new home has a single bathroom, you won’t be using the space when the work is in progress. While having two bathrooms can help you live through the remodel, it’s still inconvenient for a family with more than five members.
If you plan to remodel the bathroom, plan early and finish the makeover before you move to your new home.
4- Paint Interior Walls
Most homes are painted with a neutral color before staging. However, the color may not suit your taste or match your interior décor, and you might want to personalize your interior colors. While repainting your interiors is a budget-friendly and quick project, it can give your home a fresh touch.
The project is easier to complete when you don’t have to worry about covering or moving your furniture. Most importantly, the smell of fresh paint can be uncomfortable, so it’s prudent to complete it before you move in.
Repainting your interior walls goes beyond colors, so it’s essential to consider various finishes that can make your house livelier.
5- Upgrade Locks and Change Security Devices Batteries
Security upgrades can be simple but essential for your safety. While you may have met the previous owner, it’s tricky to know if someone else has duplicates of the key.
It’s prudent to have a technician replace the locks and babyproof your property to avoid unnecessary risks. Also, changing the locks gives you peace of mind as you control access to your property.
Similarly, security devices like smoke alarms and home monitoring gadgets are crucial. While home inspectors often check whether home security devices are functional, they may not check the batteries.
Besides, it’s difficult to determine if the batteries are good. You can ensure optimum performance by replacing the batteries before you settle in your new house.
6- Upgrade Cabinet and Closet Shelving
Unpacking your items after moving into a new house can be daunting, even when you have lots of storage space. But when there isn’t enough space for your items, organizing and decluttering will be difficult.
You can prepare by upgrading the storage space and other fixtures in cabinets and closets to ensure sufficient space for all your items. While the project is simple, it can make your new home look neat and organized.
Cabinet and closet shelves are widely available online and in brick-and-mortar furniture shops. They’re usually cheaper than their customized counterparts. But measure the intended space’s dimensions properly to avoid installation problems. You can upgrade old ones to customized cabinets and shelves for a unique look and optimal functionality with the help of a professional.
7- Repair Leaks and HVAC Filters
Regardless of size, leaks can cause significant problems to your home. Water leaks can lead to water damage and other issues like mildew, mold, and rot.
Faucet leaks are easy to spot. But many homeowners neglect them, causing worse problems, including high utility bills. A small drop per ten seconds can waste one full gallon of water daily. Just imagine the great savings of repairing seemingly minor faucet leaks.
Moreover, damaged O-ring, clogged P-trap, drain leaks, and a corroded valve seat can lead to water wastage, requiring prompt repair. Replacing damaged O-rings and P-traps is relatively easy using basic tools. You don’t need any special tool to install the Flex P-trap apart from a drywall knife to cut the tube. That said, it’s always best to exercise caution and seek professional help when dealing with complex plumbing issues.
On the other hand, leaking ductwork can compromise your home’s efficiency, leading to higher energy bills.
One of the sources of the highest electricity consumption is air conditioning. During summer, many homeowners use air conditioners most hours of the day.
In addition, air conditioners are essential home appliances that make your space comfy and habitable. You want to ensure the HVAC is flawless before you move in.
Therefore, inspect the ductwork and upgrade the filters to ensure fresh air and better efficiency. If you want to learn more about improving system efficiency in your home, electricians from The Land Down Under provide some great tips on how to save electricity in your kitchen.
8- Remove Textured Ceilings and Walls
If you’ve bought an older home, chances are it has popcorn ceilings or textured walls. While the design provides an easy way to mask imperfections in traditional homes, it’s unpleasant to anyone conscious of modern designs. Moreover, the material may contain irritants that can pose health concerns.
Removing popcorn ceilings and walls can be easy but extremely messy due to debris and dust. It’s easier and cheaper to sand out the ceiling and walls when your house is empty since you don’t have to move or cover your furniture.
Endnote
Moving to a new house can be exciting but often laden with complications and miscellaneous expenses. And while you can’t plan for all the possible scenarios, you can implement essential home upgrade projects to save money and avoid inconveniences after moving in.
